The Desert Embroidery Educational Visitor Center:
Come as a Guest, Leave as a Friend!
Hospitality is an integral part of Bedouin tradition. We continue this tradition by hosting visitors from Israel and abroad in our hand-woven Bedouin tent in Lakia. Trained women guides welcome visitors, talk about the lives of Bedouin women in the past, the changes they are undergoing in the present and the role of embroidery as both creative and social expression in women’s lives. The talk includes personal stories and time for questions from the audience.
Every group visit includes traditional Bedouin coffee and tea and a visit to the Desert Embroidery store next to the tent.
Light dairy or hot meals (chicken or vegetarian) can be ordered for the group in advance
In Addition Visitors Can Enjoy:
A Bedouin embroidery workshop
Handicraft workshops to create a bracelet or hair ornament out of embroidery thread (suitable for children and adults)
A visit to a Bedouin woman’s home to hear her story, try on traditional clothes and help prepare Bedouin coffee
A guided walk in Lakia that includes a viewpoint on a nearby unrecognized village with explanations
Fun (and photos) trying on Bedouin clothing
A henna workshop
Bedouin pita preparation on a traditional taboun (outdoor oven)
Celebrate a special occasion with friends or children (birthday, bat mitzvah) with a meal and workshop of your choice
*Please note that all workshops and meals must be ordered in advance.
“The Secret of Lakia”: Together with two other tourism sites in Lakia, we have created a full day visitor program including visits and talks at Desert Embroidery, at the Huriya Palace, a unique ancient mud structure, and a presentation about Bedouin traditional herbal medicine at the Medicinal Plant Nursery. Meals and workshops can be added.
In addition to group visits, we are always happy to host individuals and small groups. A visit to Desert Embroidery builds a bridge to Bedouin culture, strengthens understanding between religions, and fosters new friendships and mutual tolerance.
Please contact us by email to learn more about visits to Desert Embroidery.
Sample of Visitor Comments from Israel
“Amazingly beautiful place! It gives hope.” Hannah, Raanana, Israel
“The visit was fascinating. We saw and learned about beautiful Bedouin embroidery! Thank you for your hospitality.” Yael, Etty and Michal
“It’s amazing to see how women succeed in helping each other. May you continue!” Shlomit, Lehavim Israel
“The talk was fascinating. Good for you! We admire your strength and adherence to your goal! Your life story is significant and should be told to all women wherever they are.” Gal, Rachel and Cheli
“Our visit made us appreciate and love you. You are true heroines!” Physical therapist group from the Ministry of Education
“We arrived on a winter day with our guests from England. They, of course, were very excited by the visit. But I must note that we as Israelis were even more excited!” Yael and Gabi
“You are really queens of the desert! The talk was fascinating, interesting, and opened a window to a different world.”
“This was my second visit and I was astounded by the process the women are undergoing. Impressive women that help each other and together contribute to the community, empower women and educate the next generation for leadership, health and mutual support.” Bruriya, Dorot Israel
Sample of Visitor Comments from Abroad
“Your story and work for the women of this community is so fascinating. …as a woman, I take my freedom and rights for granted. We wish you the very best for you and your mission in the future!” Sheila, U.S.A
“Inspirational life story and movement. Another facet of Israel.” Kathryn, U.K.
“Thank you for an amazing experience. It was wonderful to hear your story and to talk to you.” Sofie & Danna, Denmark
“Thank you so much for your warm hospitality and for making us feel so welcome. It is an honor to meet you and to learn about your wonderful work in helping the women and girls of your community.” Shira, Ilan, Raphael & Jonathan, Australia
These are just a small sample of the comments visitors have left in our visitor book in the past few years.
Workshops for Children and Adults
Hudah, Naama and Chessin, Our Welcoming Guides
A Light Dairy Meal
